Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of London Fashion Week – the buzz, the cameras, the dazzling lights, and the sheer glamour create a feast for the senses.
But how can those with visual impairments truly experience this spectacle? This year, the non-profit organization Hair & Care introduced an innovative “immersive tactile experience”, allowing guests to touch the runway pieces and listen to detailed audio descriptions.
Renowned designers such as Chet Lo, Roksanda, and SS Daley enthusiastically participated in this groundbreaking initiative. Jessikah Inaba, the UK’s first blind black barrister, shared her experience of using clothing descriptions to visualize the pieces mentally. However, this new opportunity offered her a unique “reverse experience”.
She expressed, “I can feel the texture, listen to the descriptions, and imagine how the written words would capture my sensory experience. Chet Lo has done an exceptional job describing everything – from colors and patterns to materials. This plays a crucial role in helping me truly understand and appreciate the garments.”
Another guest, student Aleks Tamasauskas, acknowledged that while fashion is predominantly visual, the audio descriptions and tactile swatches greatly enhanced the understanding. He emphasized, “It helps connect the dots – as a visually impaired person, it’s sometimes challenging to differentiate between a dress and a suit. Sitting right in front of the models allowed us to grasp the details and outfits. The thoughtful audio descriptions provided valuable insights into the clothing and materials used.”
Lucy Edwards, an influencer and model who lost her sight at a young age, revealed her initial feelings of exclusion from the fashion world. She shared, “For years, I felt disconnected and unable to participate, as if my sense of self had been taken away. But now, with this tactile experience, I can finally feel and engage with the pieces in a whole new way.”
The project goes beyond merely touching the garments; it aims to provide a profound understanding of the inspiration behind the designs. Designers ensured that each garment was thoroughly described through audio for the blind and low vision guests, creating a truly immersive experience.
Ms. Edwards emphasized, “Hearing Chet’s cheerful voice in the audio description, along with understanding his creative vision, adds a deeper layer of meaning. This is the future – audio description is a simple yet inclusive way to connect in 2025. Don’t hesitate, embrace it. Disability is universal, and tactile experience is paramount.”
Mr. Lo emphasized his belief that fashion should be inclusive for all individuals. He stated, “I design for all genders, races, and abilities.”
Jane Manley from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) expressed her enhanced experience compared to sighted individuals, highlighting the importance of feeling the intricacies of Chet Lo’s creations. She emphasized, “It’s about determining if the style, color, and shape resonate with our identity. For clothing brands, ensure you provide alt text on
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